POU TURUTURU: TAONGA FOR THE POUTOKOMANAWA
CELEBRATING THE FIRST GRADUATES OF POUTOKOMANAWA REO MĀORI
10 November 2026
In 2026, Te Wānanga o Raukawa proudly introduced a new qualification to its programme offerings: Poutokomanawa Reo Māori - the Postgraduate Certificate in Reo Māori. Delivered online over 30 weeks, with a strong focus on self-directed learning, the programme was created for fluent and experienced speakers of te reo Māori who are ready to delve deeper into the intricacies and beauty of the language.
The inaugural intake attracted an impressive 51 ākonga, all committed to strengthening their reo and expanding their understanding of the deeper layers of Māori language and thought. Those who successfully complete their studies will be celebrated at this year's graduation ceremony, Te Rā Whakapūmau, where they will receive their postgraduate certificate alongside a very special taonga, a pou turuturu.
Presented to graduands who attend Te Rā Whakapūmau in person, these taonga are gifted on behalf of our three-founding iwi, Te Āti Awa, Ngāti Raukawa, and Ngāti Toa Rangatira. The gift acknowledges and honours each graduand's dedication, perseverance, and commitment to the pursuit of mātauranga.
At first glance, the pou turuturu is simple in design, but that simplicity carries deep meaning. Streamlined and free from unnecessary embellishment, it focuses on what is essential, providing stability and strength. Its natural form reflects the understanding of our tūpuna that true elegance often lies in simplicity.
More than a beautifully crafted taonga, the pou turuturu symbolises a firm commitment to one's chosen kaupapa and the ongoing journey to seek deeper knowledge, insight, and understanding. Traditionally, the pou turuturu is used alongside the turuturu whatu, muka aho, and whatu in the weaving of taniko, representing both skill and dedication to learning.
The pou turuturu for this year's graduation ceremony have been carved by Matene Climie (Ngāti Raukawa, Ngāi Tahu, Muaūpoko) and Jody Burgess (Ngāti Maniapoto). Through their craftsmanship, each piece carries not only cultural significance but also serves as a lasting reminder of the graduates' achievements and their continuing journey in te reo Māori.
As the first cohort of Poutokomanawa Reo Māori prepares to graduate, the occasion marks an important milestone, not only for the ākonga themselves, but also for the growth and advancement of te reo Māori within our communities. Their success is a testament to the enduring strength of the language and the commitment of those who continue to nurture, protect, and champion it for future generations.
Ko tōku reo, tōku ohooho, ko tōku reo, tōku māpihi maurea, tōku reo, tōku whakakai marihi
If you would like to know more about Te Wānanga o Raukawa, visit https://www.wananga.com/